Amnesty International Reports Deteriorating Human Rights in the Philippines

Amnesty International Philippines has raised alarms over the worsening human rights situation in the country, highlighting widespread impunity and the ongoing practice of red-tagging against human rights defenders. In a statement issued on June 10, 2025, the organization emphasized that these issues are symptomatic of a broader pattern of repression embedded within the Philippine legal and political systems.

The acting director of Amnesty International Philippines, Jepie Papa, underscored the risks faced by a range of human rights defenders, including journalists, leaders from indigenous communities, and environmental activists. Papa stated, "Laws like the Anti-Terrorism Act, the practice of surveillance, and the red-tagging of human rights defenders show that mechanisms of repression are deeply embedded in the system" (Amnesty International Philippines, June 10, 2025).

Red-tagging, a practice where individuals and organizations are labeled as subversives or terrorists for their critical stance towards the government, has become increasingly prevalent. During a press conference to launch its "Report 2024/25: State of the World's Human Rights," Amnesty International presented testimonies from various human rights defenders and development workers, calling for their voices to be heard and their safety to be prioritized.

In a counterstatement, Police Brigadier General Jerry Protacio of the Philippine National Police (PNP) asserted that the police do not have a legal mandate to engage in red-tagging. "Regarding the issue of repression of dissent, the PNP does not possess any legal mandate to engage in the practice commonly referred to as red-tagging, whether against individuals or groups," Protacio stated (Philippine National Police, June 10, 2025).

The report by Amnesty International also emphasized that the freedom of expression and association in the Philippines is under significant threat. Papa further noted that millions of Filipinos continue to experience poverty and insecurity despite signs of economic improvement. "What really drives poverty and insecurity? This is the human rights issue. We cannot talk about progress while millions go hungry, live in slums, or fear violence for standing up and speaking out," she remarked.

The organization highlighted the negative impact of the climate crisis on marginalized communities, including indigenous peoples, farmers, and fisherfolk. Additionally, it referenced the political turbulence surrounding the 2025 mid-term elections, calling for the establishment of robust institutions that prioritize accountability over celebrity politics.

Amnesty International also commented on the International Criminal Court's (ICC) recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, describing it as a "brief respite" for the families of victims of his administration's violent policies. "By rejoining the Rome Statute, fully cooperating with the ICC, and prosecuting perpetrators beyond Duterte’s case, the Philippine government can demonstrate its commitment to credible investigations and delivering justice," concluded Papa.

The report serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges to human rights in the Philippines, urging both national and international stakeholders to address these pressing issues with urgency and commitment.